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Portfolio: Mitch Dobrowner

photo-eye GalleryPortfolio: Mitch Dobrowner
photo-eye Gallery is excited to announce that new storm images by Mitch Dobrowner are now available. Dobrowner has always been drawn to weather — and in 2009 he actively started seeking out tempests and twisters in the company of professional storm chasers.

We are excited to announce that new storm images by Mitch Dobrowner are now available. Dobrowner has always been drawn to weather and in 2009 he actively started seeking out tempests and twisters in the company of professional storm chasers. Since that time, storm chasing evolved into a passion. After his first trip, I recall Dobrowner recounting the challenge of attempting to comprehend the events that he was witnessing — while also trying to capture his image. Over the years Dobrowner has found comfort in the company of epic storms, and through it all, he retains a sense of reverence and respect for the natural world. Each storm is truly unique and awe inspiring. Dobrowner’s storm chasing quests have taken him across more than 14 states — securing him front row seats for some of the most breathtaking and mind-blowing performances of mother nature. Confronting 50 miler per hour winds, pouring rain, or both, Mitch Dobrowner continues to capture absolutely sublime and magnificent moments.
I’ve asked Mitch to share a few of his recent storm chasing experiences. I hope that you enjoy! —Anne Kelly

"Before I scheduled the trip I told my son, who was graduating from high school, that I wanted to capture a picture of him in front of a tornado. The picture wasn't for me, it was for him. I wanted my son to have an experience with his dad that he would remember when I wasn't around anymore. Note: I'm still a young man (OK, if you want call a bit over 50 that) and expect to be around for a while yet — but that was my goal.

On our 4500 mile, 7 day trip between June 14-20 we witnessed 18 tornadoes. I remember my son Joshua being a bit in shock at the sight of his first tornado. And I'll always remember him saying 'Dad, I thought you were kidding. Can we go now?'

In regards to the image White Tornado: ever since I shot the image Rope Out I had been on the hunt for a sister image. I had seen one in my mind but never in actuality. In order for that to happen all the conditions would have to be right. This included which side of the storm we were on, the direction of the light and the landscape that the tornado was over.

On June 18th near Woonsocket, South Dakota we witnessed what was one of 7 tornadoes that day. It was one of the most beautiful sights I had ever witnessed. And by my side the whole time was my son.

While I'm out I always hear what I define as a mantra, spoken by Edward Abbey: 'Our job is to record, each in his own way, this world of light and shadow and time that will never come again exactly as it is today.'

This image represents both an interesting phenomenon while and at the same time being a bit comical. Though I'm dedicated, devoted and passionate about my photography, I always want to have fun and never lose my perspective on life. This picture represents a moment that may never happen again while at the same time put a smile on my face as I snapped the shutter. It shows that Mother Nature can be unpredictable." —Mitch Dobrowner